Steven Cozza to take a break from professional cycling until he fully recovers from colitis
Steven Cozza signed a two-year deal with the German side, Team NetApp in 2011. However, the cyclist has decided to take a break from professional cycling in order to fully recover from his health discrepancies.
There is a big question mark about his return to professional cycling and he has also shown uncertainties about the issue.
The 26-year-old started riding professionally in 2007 and spent a period of four years with his first World Tour side, Team Slipstream-Chipotle.
Steven experienced many hindrances during his young career. He made his first 2010 appearance at the Tour de Qatar and broke his collarbone for the third time and required surgery.
The news of his departure from the team was made official during a press release issued by Team NetApp earlier this week.
It reads, “For too long now I have been struggling with colitis, I am getting better at managing it but at this point it is not improving fast enough for me to continue at this professional level in the sport of cycling”.
Cozza also explained that his return only depends on how quickly his body recovers and his return to professional cycling is only a matter of time.
He expressed his strong love for cycling and briefed that the illness is stopping him to demonstrate to his abilities, which is the main reason behind his decision to leave the sport.
“I love the sport of cycling so to only be able to perform at 50% of my best because of my health has been very frustrating. I miss the rider I used to be – the aggressive one attacking nonstop throughout the race,” he voiced.
Cozza thanked Team NetApp for the support he received from the German team during the two years he spent with the side.
Team Manager Ralph Denk acknowledged Steven’s importance in the team and briefed that he was very crucial for the team and helped the young side with his experience.
Only time will tell if Cozza can recover in time to continue his professional pursuit for the 2012 season, as he is eager to return to his bike to compete at the toughest level of the sport.
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